Storm of Chaos IC

[DrK]

"Forged from the other world, six treasures shall he posses... Upon his head the crown shall see all, and open eyes will prove woe to mortal kind... Then shall he ride unto the World... Then will the World know that the last war has begun... With the coming of doom will march a lowly boy. Anger his nourishment and blood his wine... And from the Land tamed will rise a Champion. Disease shall be his downfall and saviour divine... A King's son shall be chosen. In power will he thrive and glory in is name... And with the coming of the end the old will fall by the hand of the new..."

—The Prophecy of Fate, taken from the Celestine Book of Divination by Necrodomo the Insane

It has been a tumultuous time in the Courts and Cities of the Empire and the shadows of Chaos once more stretch across the land in a manner not seen since the Great Wars of the Ages! The Cult of Sigmar has been riven with internal strife and the Grand Theoginist had gone against the words of Karl Franz!

It began in Jahrdrung as the land slowly shook of the grip of Winter. Several enormous hordes of Chaos (mostly Kurgan with Norse) drove southwards towards Kislev, the largest led by the Archaon Everchosen,and his warlords High Zar Surtha Lenk and High Zar Aelric Cyenwulf. Across the world seers and prophets went insane as visions churn through their minds. The Spring Driving begins.

In the Grand Temple of Sigmar, disturbed by the insanity and plague of mutants and witch craft The Grand Theogonist Volkmar the Grim decides to face Archaon, believing himself to be a long prophesised Champion who will fell the Everchosen. But in a great argument across the Court at the Grand Palace The Emperor Karl Franz refused the Grand Theogonist access to the armies of the Reikland, claiming the war in Albion (Neuland) has drained his resources, and he has no men to spare. Volkmar the Grim wielding the Jade Griffon of the Grand Theogonist approaches many parties, looking for men to form an army. Some help, some do not. Sigmar's army is formed and is cheered by Volkmar as it begins to head North, Volkmar to catch up later. As the army of Sigmar begins to march the Twin-Tailed Comet appears in the bright night sky. Especially in the Altdorf thousands of people throng the streets, driven to hysteria by the rumours and the comet. Grand Theogonist Volkmar appears daily on the steps of the temple of Sigmar in Altdorf. There are many rumours about the war in the north. Streets are full of doomsayers, flagellants, curates, students, scholars, fishwives, pickpockets, preachers, riots...etc. There are also rumours about the Champion of Light, who would arise to face

Riding across Reikland with the Army of Sigmar Luthor Huss, a self-styled prophet of Sigmar, challenges the hierarchy of the church of Sigmar. Huss claims that the priests had become corrupt and decadent, ignoring the teachings of Grand Theogonist Volkmar the Grim and abandoning Sigmar's mission. He makes many enemies, these including Johann Esmer. The arguments start from within the Sigmarite Council in Altdorf, after Arch-Lector Kurt Mannfeld of Nuln disappeared during his crusade against the north in 2515. Even then Grand Theogonist Volkmar the Grim was absent from the the council spending more and more time in the high pinnacle at the top of the Temple of Sigmar. Malign rumours circulated in the council and doubt Volkmar's sanity because of the many hours he has spent reading unholy grimoires brought to him by the witch hunters.

Now it has been 3 months hence and Volkmar has joined the Army of Sigmar and along with many of the brave men Tablecland has marched north into the Troll Country to face the oncoming horde! Meanwhile the other great horde led by High Zar Surtha Lenk’s armies face the armies of Ostland led by Elector Count Valmir von Raukov and defeated them in battle. The brave men of Ostland and even von Raukov's famed dragon bow could not stand against the horde of savage kurgan, shaggy pony riding hung and the heavily armoured Warriors of the Dread Crow.

Now the Capital of Ostland, the fine city of Wolfenburg is under siege, a ring of savage warriors and mutants encircling the Grand City, other warbands and savage raiding parties raising terror and panic across Ostland

Spoiler: Big map of Ostland

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Now on the 18h of Vorgenheim you have arrived alongside the Army of Hochland. It took the brave scout Amus only a few days to race across the forests dodging kurgan and Hung before reaching the outskirts of Tabalcland where the Emperor himself had been visiting the great crater city. There Karl Franz had put out a great call to arms, calling upon all of is Electors to raise an army to meet at the keep of Struhelspan the fortified crossing of the River Wolfen that separates Hochland and Tabalcland. Now, you along with the the famed Captain Ludof Ludenhof of the 2nd Drakwald battalion have reached the bridge! The rest of the army some 20 leagues behind you...

After a long 4 days of hard marching at the vanguard of the Grand Army of the Empire you finally have the Struhelpan in sight. The River Wolfen cuts through the forest here, a rapid flowin torrent some 200 paces wide at its narrowest and deep enough to allow the largest of river boats. Even from the low rise you reach you can see the White and Black flag of Ostland emblazoned with the red bull flying from the ramparts of the large fortified keep that stands at each end of the ancient stone bridge. The stones wethaered but still solid and wide enough to let 2 wagons pass side by side. The far side of the bridge marks Ostland, your neighbouring State but now in trouble - already you can see a horizon marred with columns of smoke from raids and attacks by chaos scavengers. At the vanguard of the Drakwald battalion you are the fist to see the view, the two knights and the strange Tilean mercanary riding around the delicate wood elf in their midst whilst leading the troops Tuli and Amos range a few hundred yards up the road. Behind you, stretching down the narrow forest road are the 300 men brave men (and few woman) of the Drakwald battalion.

A few paces behind you the tall and thin aggressive Captain of the regiment - and son of the Elector Count looks out at the scene. He glances are the two knights, eyes sliding past Bella and focuses on Ashrya "So, Seer. Here we are. We have it seems beat the horde to the bridge. What do we do now?"

[Haval]

Tuli gently places her hand on Tylik's neck and the big horse comes to a halt. She could tell he was excited and wanted to keep going. He might even be able to smell the distant smoke from here. Tylik likely knew what that meant just as much as she did. They had seen enough war together. <'Patience my friend.'> Tuli talks to her horse in Ungol as the language he was most familiar with. She will look to see if the Struhelspan keep is still occupied.

Tuli is a short and hard looking woman by southern standards. A friend once told her that all the Ungol tended to be like that. A life on the Oblast ground them down but in return left them concentrated and tougher then most. Tuli's messy black hair is currently tied back to keep it out of her eyes as she rides while her face is weathered by a life spent mostly outside. She wears leathers over a set of clothing that is intended by long experience not to interfere with her riding while her wolf skin cloak, which was her one real affectation, is currently bundled up with the rest of her gear on Tylik's back. In the warmer weather of the south she hardly needs it.

She had rode north as soon as she had heard about the invasion, even ahead of most of the Kislevites that she had fought beside in the Imperial army. She had quarreled with some of them over that decision. She had even spoke badly to the druzhina for his decision to wait and prepare. He was no coward, not really. They had fought together against the Greenskins in the south enough that she knew that, but he was old and that couldn't help but blunt his thinking. From what she had heard of the horde there was little anyone could do to prepare in the face of it, but it must be opposed anyway, and she would fight beside anyone who aimed to that.

Tuli has carefully avoided thinking too closely about what the state of her homeland would be after a Northman army of such size had passed through it. The family she had left behind might already have fallen. Perhaps an Ungol rota would have had more sense then to throw their lives away on an unwinnable battle, but some fates were unavoidable. If any of them had survived she would see them again some day. In the meantime she would take out her frustration on every Northman she could catch.

The band she was with now seemed like they had potential at least, although she had no idea how it would be to fight beside such people. The two Knights she had obviously asked for a friendly practice fight with on the way north. Knights were supposed to be the champions of the south even as they covered themselves in heavy armour to an extent that not even most of the Gospodars bothered with. Both men seemed like fine warriors, but their armour was a weakness that made them slower then they should be. If they refused, or even if she lost these practice duels it was always good to take the measure of those she fought beside.

That Armand the Bretonnian traveled with the Elf was surprising to her. She had heard the stories of Elves supposedly living in some of the out of the way woodlands in southern Kislev. They were known to be no friend to the humans that sometimes strayed into their lands, but were an even more implacable enemy to followers of the Ruinous Powers. The Elf was a fireside story come to life, but what bothered Tuli was that she was somehow an Elven Wise Woman of some kind. Perhaps having such a woman here was better for all of them, but no one could entirely relax around any Wise Woman. They knew far too much and while their intent was generally good, the route they chose to get there sometimes rode roughshod over the people around them. Tuli is scrupulously polite around Asyrha when she has to be, but will sometimes watch her suspiciously when she thinks the Elf isn't looking.

Only one other Kislevite had come with after her argument with the druzhina. Yuri was a good sort, but he was still a Gospodar stick-in-the-mud so Tuli felt no obligation to camp near him. Instead she had roamed between the different parts of the 2nd Drakwald and has eaten with anyone willing to share a place by their fire. Lately that has been a group of mercenaries from the far south in a place called Tilea. She has no idea what most of them are saying but is used to that since she left the north. That this Bella seemed like she was in charge of them all only spoke well of them to Tuli. As far as she can tell, most women don't rise to such positions in the south.

Aside from Yuri, Amos was the main scout she had had any reason to speak with. She had heard of the man's ride south of course, and can only respect him for his horsemanship. He is not Ungol but may be skilled enough to have done well in the Oblast. Most of all though, Amos is riding north to help defeat the invaders of his homeland as well and so Tuli can't help but feel a certain kinship with him.

[Erulasto]

The forests of the Empire felt so cold and unwelcoming, for even though the shadowed boughs of Athel Loren were often dangerous and uncaring, the spirit of the forest was still strong.

Here, with the looming threat of the Ruinous Powers hanging over them like the Sword of Khaine, the lands seemed thick with corruption. Asyrha could taste the Dhar on the wind like a rancid wine.

The Spellsinger, clad in loose and flowing robes of white gossamer and silk, turned her vivid gaze out across the river. How much were these humans willing to pay to stymie the coming storm? Would they demolish the bridge, potentially maiming trade and troop movements just to halt the army here?

She doubted it. The folly of Men lay heavily on their history. And her own, as well.

Asyrha looked to the sky, so alien and strange. Though the stars were the same, their positions in the sky sparkled differently than back home. High above the land, the miasma of Asyr flowed in unending torrents and vorticies like the wind. Ignoring the question for the time being, Asyrha let her mind wander the twisted roads of Elven memory. To the road that led her here. Now. With these new companions. Each hoping by their life, or death, they could save their homes from the torches of Chaos.

Brave Armand, her strange companion for many moons now, was capable and valorous. Traits the wood witch had little exposure to among the other humans she has met. In him, she had the most faith, if from her experiences alone.

The Knight of the Empire, Gottfried, she suspected was skilled at warfare. Perhaps of all her companions, as her keen ears had heard whispered rumors among some of the men. Of a vampire and Gottfried's bravery there. It was not meant for her, no...but the camps of men were rife with gossip and innuendo.

The Kislevite archer Tuli was curious. Her skill with a bow was not unlike the glade guard of Athel Loren. She was quick and accurate, and Aszyrha admired the young woman - still but a child in the long years of the elves - as archery was a noble and worthy skill among her people. And to dwell so close to the Wastes and the Troll Country...that took a hardy spirit.

Myrmidia was not unknown to the elves of Athel Loren, for their proximity to Tilea and Estalia was no secret. Though Asyrha had no real belief in the Human Gods, what she knew was worthy of respect. So unlike Khaine and the Cytharai. The Elven Gods were many, though perhaps Asuryan Himself came closest to embodying the same ideals as Myrmidia. So the firebrand known as Bella, Asyrha had high hopes for. She seemed a dependable and passionate young warrior. Time would tell if these traits would bring hubris, or glory.

Amos was the simplest to understand for Asyrha, though that was not in any way a bad thing. His own experiences in the wild places was well-regarded. Anyone who could master such a blighted land walked as her kin under the boughs.

"I am not your commander, Captain Ludenhof." Asyrha began breezily, finally breaking the trance she had entered.

"I would but advise, for I am unaccustomed to your methods of warfare. But..." She raised a slender hand and pointed long and elegant fingertips towards the bridge. "I would destroy the bridge to slow the advance. If you cannot bear to part with it, then at least occupy the garrison on either end and pray your Gods are watching."

Asyrha opened herself to the Winds of Magic, feeling the ebb and flow of all Eight Winds. Qhaysh was intoxicatingly wonderous. Grasping at threads of Azyr, the Spellsinger wove them into a simple spell of foretelling.

Spoiler: OOC

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Casing Omen. Question: Is defending the bridge without destroying it favorable or not?

Channelling (1d100)[4] TN 83
(2d10)[8][7](15) +2 for channelled TN 4

[dojango]

Amos ran his hand through his thinning hair. He was of average height, but of sturdy build, made tougher by many years patrolling the roads in all sorts of weather. He was atop his new horse, Whitefoot, who seemed reliable enough. A little over-eager to be out running, not quite serious enough, but we were all like that once. While he was recovering from his injuries a number of regiments had asked the new hero to come scout for them, and Amos had chosen to ride alongside the 2nd Drakwald because they had been given the honor of the vanguard, and that was where he needed to be. This was the time of Ulric, the killing time, when men must fight for their very survival.

Now, most days he was leaving the camp at dawn, while the men were still waking, and returning close to dusk, long after the the march had stopped. He was out searching for ambushes, roadblocks, and of course, enemy scouts and reavers, to put in the ground lest they give notice of the army's advance. He was grateful for the help of the Ungol woman Tuli. Amos rode beside her whenever he had the chance, speaking to her in his rough Kislevarin. The other women, the strange mage and stranger elf, he avoided superstitiously. He'd seen enough strange things in the deep woods to fully trust them. And, of course, the young city woman Bella... she brightened up the camp, that was for sure. It was impossible not to be affected by her infectious cheer. The two knights, Sir Armand and Sir Gottfried. No doubt when the fighting started, they would be in the forefront, relying on their evident skill and strong armor to protect them... but for now he winced whenever their metal gear scraped or jingled. Not that they could hide a regiment of this size for long...

"We... we... need to cross the bridge ourselves. The army needs to cross the bridge. The next bridge is 25 miles north of here over bad roads. It would take a week... no." He turns to the Captain. "Permission to take a few scouts across the bridge to check for ambushes."

[Janwin]

Sir Gottfried von Stuttburg made quite an appearance riding atop the massive brown destrier named Sigmund. His well-polished and ornate plate armor shines in the sun, and the jingle of chain can be heard under the caparison draped over the horse bearing the black iron cross, skull and wreath of the Reiksguard. A red and white gambeson can be seen poking out from under his plate armor, and his helmet bears three tall feathers--one red and two white. His white shield bearing the same iron cross, skull and wreath lays hanging from the saddle, positioned over his left leg and within easy reach, and a sword hangs from his hip. Hanging from the other side of the saddle is a morning star, ready to be grabbed at a moment's notice. A pair of saddle bags hang behind him, packed with whatever supplies he might need for this campaign. Held in his right hand is a long lance, upright and resting on his right foot.

It had been many years since his knighting, but it seemed the stories still spread throughout the ranks wherever he went about the battle against the Vampire Count and his undead army. It didn't really bother him; while he never cared to gain much attention, there was some benefit in the men gaining courage fighting beside one who had fought a foe similar to what they now face. It still weighed in his mind, however, that the Empire had been in relative peace since his knighting, and that he had spent most of his years as a knight barracked in Altdorf seeing little action except for parades, tournaments and guard duty. He had trained non-stop to be ready for action, but that didn't stop his doubts from coming to mind.

The Emperor had ordered him to join the 2nd Drakwald as an attachment, and that was how he found himself marching with them. It seems that there were some other strange individuals attached to the battalion, but they were here to fight against the threat currently facing the Empire and Gottfried wouldn't turn aside anyone willing to stand in battle beside him.

The Knight from Brettonia was of considerable interest, and it would be interesting to see how their Knightly orders performed in battle. He knew the other knight would be a staunch ally to have on the front line of battle, and expected he could count on him.

The elf that came with him, however, he would have to see. She was a magic user, so that was of value, but he had heard the stories about the elves from the woods. It would be interesting to see if they were true.

He felt that the Tilean mercenary would be reliable as well, provided she was paid. They were known for being good fighters, after all.

The scout certainly had his favor since the beginning of their march. The man had carried the message to Altdorf informing the Emperor of the northern threat, and anyone determined enough to make that ride had shown his loyalty to the Emperor already. Gottfried and the messenger had traveled from Altdorf with the Emperor together, and the man had continued to serve the army loyally and effectively as a scout, so he knew he could trust the man.

The barbarian horse archer from the north, however, would likely prove a challenge. He worried that she might be too headstrong and get the whole company killed, but only time would show if that was true. She had bested a member of the Reiksguard in a duel, so it was clear that she was a good fighter, so there was at least that. He had tested this himself when she suggested they practice together, and she had proven to be quite capable.

Overall, he felt confident in the abilities of his comrades, even if they were from places scattered all over the world.

[Lord Athos]

In more recent days, the nightmares had grown less intense, more bearable. Sieur Armand took it as a sign from the lady, a sign that he had chosen the right path to do her will.

Thus, having joined the host of Hochland hurrying to face the corruption in the north head on, he felt calmer, more focused.

He was glad to know Asyrha at his side. Of course, some of her ways still seemed strange to him, and not only in the sense that she was a sorceress, or an elf, but he knew he couldn't wish for a keener mind, a more steadfast ally, or loyal friend in the days to come. Sieur Armand had made a point to watch her back during their travels, and he continued to do so now with the host, conversing with her calmly in Eltharin about the challenges to come, and her thoughts about the Empire's chances.

While travelling with the Hochland Army, Sieur Armand was confronted with Tuli's request of a practice fight.
He was sure the short, leather-clad woman was competent at what she did - bit judging from her equipment and her horse, it wasn't frontline personal combat. As such, a duel could hardly be fair, and thus, hardly be honourable.
Also, she was a woman.
Thus, Sieur Armand refused with utmost politeness.
With interest, Sieur Armand watched Tuli ask the same from Sir Gottfried, the Imperial knight travelling with them. Him accepting the duel was unexpected.

From his travels in the Empire during his Errantry, he knew the Reiksguard were the personal household knights of the Emperor. They were renown for their valour and prowess, and Sieur Armand therefore expected Sir Gottfried to be a cut above most knights of the Empire in both ability and honour. So far, he hadn't disappointed.
During the time on the road, he had had the opportunity to discuss some matters of tactics with the Imperial, hoping to get some insights in specific Imperial designs and movements, since they made up the bulk of their forces.

There was much talk about that mercenary infantry leader, Eisenhauer . She had some reputation, too - Sieur Armand did not have a set opinion about her yet. Mercenaries always were a bit suspect to the Bretonnian, on the other hand, he knew Myrmidia as a honourable goddess.

In general, Sieur Armand had been fairly taciturn since Asyrha and him had joined with the Hochland army.

Sieur Armand led his destrier next to Asyrha, bringing him to a halt and followed the conversation in silence, for now.
The knight's bearded, noble face, scarred by war and worry, was currently obscured by his great helm, decorated on top with the golden dragon of Armagnac. His Bretonnian full plate armour only added to his natural height and strong physique, and he wore it with obvious confidence atop of his armoured warhorse. He wore a surcoat in the red and gold of his family over the armour, bearing their coat of arms; similarly, his most trusted Compère, the white horse of finest Bretonnian breed, wore a heraldic Caparison over his mail barding.
His weapons were close at hand, sword and mace at his side, the obviously well-made Sword with a handle engraved with dragons, and lance in hand.

He couldn't help but smile, invisibly beneath his helmet, at Asyrha's little insolence. That certainly could have been worded better... if she had cared.

When Amos spoke up, the knight listened. This man's famous ride had regularly been the talk of the camp for quite some time now, and he had gathered he knew what he was doing. Sieur Armand seldom saw him, as he was seemingly always scouting ahead.

The man was probably right.
For now, Armand maintained his silence.

He turned his head slightly towards Sir Gottfried. The Reiksguard knight surely had an opinion.

[Janwin]

The Imperial Knight lifts the polished metal faceplate of his helmet. With a better view, he surveys the bridge standing over the river ahead of them, and then turns his attention to the elf.

"Destruction of the bridge is hardly an option, as it would prevent the Emperor's Grand Army from relieving the siege of Wolfenburg and throwing this foe from the Empire. Abandoning Ostland is also not an option."

He glances back along the road they came before returning his attention to the group. "The Army marches behind us, and as vanguard our duty is to secure the path of advance. It would seem to me that our course would be to fortify whatever forces currently man the bridge's keep and to ensure that it remains standing and in our hands until the rest of the Army arrives and may safely pass over the river."

He then nods to Amos, "And, as good Master Amos has pointed out, the Grand Army being forced to reroute to another bridge would cost the Emperor valuable time in which the citizens of Ostland would suffer. This bridge is also the only one large enough to allow cannon, supply train and an army to cross in a reasonable amount of time."

He shakes his head slowly to make the point. "No, we cannot destroy the bridge. On the contrary, this bridge is of vital importance and we must do everything we may, including laying down our own lives, to ensure it remains standing for the Emperor."

Spoiler: OOC

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Academic Knowledge (Strategy/Tactics) [TN 31]: (1d100)[26]
Trying to determine the best options for most effectively deploying the 300 soldiers of the battalion to defend the bridge

[rax]

Bella slides off her horse and lands lightly on her feet, stretching ostentatiously to work the kinks out of her back after the long ride. Her dented but serviceable three-quarter plate rattles a bit as she moves about and the distinctive red cloak of the Company of the Red Lance flutters slightly in the breeze. A lock of raven black hair peaks out from under a green and red beret, her visored sallet hangs at her belt.

She listens quietly to the opinions being bandied about, her lips pursed as she carefully observes the bridge and the pillars of smoke rising beyond. Satisfied that she has seen all there is to see from the rise, she turns to Captain Ludof and speaks. "My lord captain, there is some value in all the opinions you have been offered so far, but for my part I am inclined to agree with Sir Gottfried and Amos. Since we are marching to relieve Wolfenburg, clearly we must cross the Wolfen, and the Struhelspan is the closest crossing. As Sir Gottfried observed, it's also strong enough to handle the cannon the Emperor is bringing." She turns and favours the knight with a beaming white smile before continuing.

"The banners of Ostland fly below, so we may hope that the bridge is in friendly hands, but the smoke beyond shows that elements of the enemy force are not far off. It's possible that the banners could be a ruse and that the enemy have already taken the Struhelspan, hoping to lure us into a trap. As we can see, the bridge is well fortified, so it would be an ideal spot for them to delay the Emperor's advance. So, Amos is right too. We should send scouts ahead to learn whether the bridge is still held by our allies and - if it is - to seek out the enemy on the other side." Bella offers Amos a sly grin and a quick wink as she speaks.

"I disagree, however, that this bridge is our only option. The bridge on the road to Castle Lenkster is an option if our current route proves impractical. The way north may be more difficult, but once we're across the river the road to Wolfenburg is shorter from there. Of course, we don't know whether the bridge and the castle have been taken by the enemy, but the Emperor would be wise to send scouts north to find out as soon as possible. And obviously, if the enemy is too strong here, then Lady Asyhra has a point as well. If we cannot hold the Struhelspan we must destroy it to prevent our foes from swarming into Hochland and striking the Grand Army in the rear." Bella inclines her head respectfully to the elven mage.

Falling silent, she rests her hand on the hilt of her sword and awaits Captain Ludof's response. There is an eager look in her green eyes, betraying her excitement at soon coming face to face with the enemy.

I'll bet our two sirs are champing at the bit as well, she thinks, glancing over at the knights. I only hope the pair of them don't go charging ahead looking for glory. Be a shame to lose two quality fighters this early in the campaign.

Amos and Tuli are used to operating on their own, but the nearer we get to the main enemy force, the greater the danger. If Captain Ludof agrees to send a scouting party, I must remind him not to let them go off alone. They're the battalion's eyes - lose them and we're as good as dead.

Lady Asyhra...well, you're just one giant, wonderful mystery aren't you? Even the war wizards treat you with respect. Can't wait to see what you've got up your sleeves... Bella stares at the mage's back, a secret smile on her full lips.

[Haval]

Earlier

When Armand refuses Tuli's offer to practice with him she'll smile indulgently before leaving to try her luck with Sir Gottfried. His attitude was disappointing but hardly unexpected. She would have to do something to change his mind. At least neither man treated her like that idiot knight she had dueled with back in Altdorf.

Now

Tuli manages to catch enough of what the others were talking about. She had learned Reikspiel well enough but sometimes missed details. 'If you can destroy all this how long would it take you to prepare to do so?' The Empire men did love their fortifications. Perhaps too much in Tuli's opinion, but it would be foolish to give up an advantage if they didn't have to. 'Better not to do something that can't be easily undone. If you must destroy it, do so when there is no hope of defending it and maybe we destroy some Northmen as they cross over perhaps?' She presumed they all spoke of some Engineering trick, but it was always possible that the armies Wizards could do the job themselves. 'And if we are to defend it we best see what's coming sooner rather then later.' She would accompany Amos if he wished it, but on Tylik she was hardly stealthy. 'And Bella is correct about this northern castle. When you fight the Northmen it is best to not let them get behind you.' She had killed her first Kurgan raider when she was fifteen and wondered how much the others knew of them.

[dojango]

Amos stood in his saddle and peered at the two keeps, looking for signs of movement in their embrasures and parapets. He'd hate to try and cross the bridge if the enemy were fortified within...

Spoiler: perception

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(1d00)[1] v. 59 for perception.

[Lord Athos]

Good advice from everyone involved. Sieur Armand was especially impressed with the mercenary. "You have been given sound advice, your Highness." the Bretonnian knight finally spoke, calmly, almost serenely. "I agree with most of it. Allow me to add, though, that we might have to push further than merely holding the bridge, if we make the crossing. We have to ensure the Grand Army crossing the river as well, safely and in its entirety. Being stuck on two sides of a river is a vulnerable position we should avoid."

[DrK]

Spoiler: Sir Gottfried Tactics

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You'd recommend putting the most of the men on the far side with a small force on this side and sending pickets out into the woods on the far side to explore and warn of anything. The bulk of the troops can defend the far side. The trees should provide plenty of material to build some crude barricades if required

The two mortars and the cannon should stay on this bank to be further from the fighting and keep safe until we advance further into Ostland

Spoiler: Asyrha's Omen

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Asryha opens herself up to the Aethyr, with her witch sight the world around them all changed and shifted as the aeythr swirled all around, great pulses of Azyr flowing overhead as the trees around formed the roots of the great net of Ghryan that anchored the forest realms whilst flickering shapes and shadows of raw Ghur let her feel the wildlife teeming in the woods. Ahead of her across the bridge towards the edge of her vision the aethyr was bruised and torn, a great smudge of dark blackish shadow where Dhar dominated and the Sorcerers of Chaos and their influence slowly spread, a storm in the realm of the aethyr and the realm of men.

She focused her mind for a second seeing the scions of fate flowing around the bridge, but as the shoals of fish circled the buttresses and a pair of bitterns alighted on the stone walls of the bridge she realised that - at least for the time being - the bridge should stay intact.

The young Captain Ludenhof looks to knights and scouts. "I would agree. Amos, Tuli, ride down and scout out the bridge. See if the flags are still friendly." He looks round and waves across to a grizzled and heavily bearded Sgt at Arms. "Take 20 of the archers and join them." As the man rushes off shouting for 20 of the green and red uniformed Hochlanders with long ash bows to join him he looks back to the knights. "I shall let the scouts check the bridge then we shall advance and garrison the far bank if you don't object"

Although the most senior in terms of both rank and nobility Ludenhof was still courteous to both of the knights. The marred plate and heavily worn sword hilts a hint at the experience of both men. "If you could let me know if its safe to cross I would appreciate that."


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The low sloping hill down towards the bridge offers little cover, the woodland thinning as it approaches the rushing waters of the Wolfen. As Amos and Tuli (and anyone who esle who joins) move down the slope its obvious that there are men in the tower on this side of the river. A welcome horn sounds a long blast and a pair of men in the black and white livery of Ostland step out of the gate, red bull embossed shields on their arms but now weapons drawn. The men wave you down.

As the scouting force get closer you can see both the men are tense and drawn looking, one with a heavy bandage on his right thigh stained red with fresh blood. He bellows in a thick Ostland accent. "Finally. We do be waiting days for aid. The City is under siege and Norse bastards and beasts are in the woods." Looking up past the scouts he can see the flags of the Drakwald 2nd and the man gulps. "I hope by the Twin Tailed Comet you brought more than that. Its a horde that has engulfed us."

Spoiler: ALL

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You know that main body of the Army is ~1-2 days behind you as it was taking time to marshal a large force and it moves a little slower than your scouting regiment.

He beckons you inside the stout keep, its a large structure with high walls forming a tunnel around the bridge end and a 3 storey tower atop with walls offering good views of the surrounding lands. From where you stand you can see some 10 or so men with bows on the tower top though you think the tower could be manned by far more men than that.

Spoiler: Picture

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The bridge goes through the gate in the middle

Looking at the infantry far behind the scouts he shouts loudly, "Open the gates, send the signal to the far side we got allies coming." Then he looks at the gathered scouts. "Sigmar be praised eh, we thought we be by ourselves against the horde."

[Erulasto]

It was hard to tell if the wood elf was paying any attention to the discourse amongst her companions and Captain Ludenhof, for while her eyes were open, they stared almost vacantly into the sky above them. Glassy eyes, unblinking, were observing the shifting patterns that the Winds of Magic created as they spilled across the world from the far north.

Her calm and distracted façade broke, for but the briefest of moments, and Asyrha sucked in a labored breath. Blinking away the residual traces of her magic, she turned to Captain Ludenhof and the others.

”The bridge…will stand. For now, at least. But be warned, Captain. Sorcerers travel with the Enemy. They bring dark magic with them. I feel it spreading far and wide….like a bruise upon flesh.” Asyrha closed her eyes for a long moment, her expressive face slipping back once more into the self-assured and disarmingly placid mien of the Elves. Armand had seen this before, perhaps, in the few unguarded moments between them.

It was clear that the disturbing calm many Elves maintained was a supreme act of will. It was as if there was a great storm of emotion hidden just behind the mask, and it was that self-control that allowed them to wield the High Magic they were known for.

”If we are to hold the Struhelspan, we must make haste and fortify what we can. The Ruinous Powers have turned their malign gaze upon Elthin Arvan and I do fear we will meet a dark end before the fortnight has passed.”

When word had eventually come from Tuli and Amos that the keep was still held by friendly forces, Asyrha gazed once more appraisingly at the stone fortifications of the Empire with her vividly blue eyes.

”Blessed Isha. Preserve us from the coming ruin. Ellinill and Drakira will feast, soon enough.” Then, Asyrha plucked her slender staff from the ground where she had laid it, and began making her way down to the keep.

Spoiler: Eltharin for Dummies 101

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Elthin Arvan: Literally “The Fated Place”, the Elven name for the Old World.

[Lord Athos]

Sieur Armand respectfully lowered his head. "As you wish, your Highness."
He joined Asyrha in advancing towards the bridge, once the scouts had sent word. If Ludenhoff wanted him and Sir Gottfried to lead the first men over the bridge, it was prudent to inspect their surroundings beforehand.

He looked at the elven sorceress quizzically, although that, again, was hidden by his helm. It was true, Armand had witnessed a reaction like that before. She had seen something. Something not very favourable, it seemed. "<Can you share what you saw?>" he quietly asked her in Eltharin after getting some distance between them and Ludenhoff, already expecting no clear answer.

[Erulasto]

"<My people call it Rhana Dandra.>" Asyrha began in a soft, breezy voice. The Eltharin flowing melodically past her lips. "<It is the End of All Days. The final battle, if you will. The rot from the North....it weighs heavily upon these lands. I fear...>"

Asyrha sighed wistfully, casting her gaze back up to the sky once more.

"<I fear it will come sooner than not.>"

Perhaps the answer was vague. It was not as if Asyrha had verifiable proof. It was feeling and instinct and a whole-hearted belief in the magic of Azyr

[Haval]

Tuli nods taking Asyrha's warning seriously, 'Then I hope these Sorcerers will like an arrow in their throats.'

---

As they approach the keep Tuli looks for signs of battle. The Ostland flags still being up might not tell them very much. Most of the Northman fought as crazed animals but a few were a little more cunning.

In response to the Ostlander soldier. 'More soldiers are coming a day or so behind us. For now you must make do with us.' She'll point at the man's wound, 'What manner of thing gave you that? Have they already tried for this place?'

[dojango]

"If there are beasts and scouts in the woods o'er there, we should make sure they don't get a chance to spread word of our coming to their masters." Amos pulled his bow up, and checked the string to make sure it was still taut.

[DrK]

At the gate the Ostlander looks at Tuli and Amos and then leans against the wall taking the weight off his injured leg. "Twas a norseman. A savage brute, but small and wiry on their accursed evil ponies. We were marching back from Zundap when our column was ovveran. It was a thing of Morr cursed nightmares. One moment there we was marching through the forest then dozens of 'em came racing down the road and more jumping out the woods mixed with beastmen." He shakes his head sadly, "We did well, but half the men fell and the rest of us barely made it back to the bridge tower." He looks at the columns of smoke on the horizon, "We heard the cannons at Wolfenburg two days past. Then slience - but at night, at night we can see the fires eh. Otland still stands."

He pats Tuli and Amos's horses as they ride past through the tunnel, joined by the 20 foot scouts and the two knights and the Tilean Bella with the mage. The hooves and boots clatter loudly on the wide stone bridge as you trot across the 200ft span. With sharp eyes you can all make out the squat neat dwarven runic marks on the keystone of each arch where the Khazlid folk helped the men of the empire with the construction decades ago. More Ostlander's stand ready to greet you on the far side of the bridge, these ones looking far more alert as they stare into the forest and gaze down the road. The forest road plunges into the trees a 50 yards or so from the banks of the river and most of you are aware that a mile or two down the road it splits into the road leading North to Castle Lenkster and East to Zundap.

THe guards on this side glance at the men, a clear look on relief on their faces. Several sport wounds and you can see the wooden palisade around the walls liberally studded with arrrows. By the bank of the river a heavy sack cloth covers the bodies of 3 soldiers killed recently if the blood soaking into the grass can be believed. THe nearest guards, the ones standing by the gate on the far side of the tunnel that would open into Ostland peer through viewing slits on the the doors clutching their halberds. "Be wary Sers and m'Lady" the guard says to the two knights and Asyrha, not noticing the elven features. "It looks quiet aye, but we tried to send a pair of messegers to reach Lenkster. Norse bastards were on them bare 200 yards down the road. Took a while to do the dying." He nods to a pair of trees flanking the road and you can see through the leaves a bloody smear on the branches and a pair of flayed soldiers crumpled at the base of the tree. "Not too many we think but enough to keep us penned in."

[rax]

"If there are beasts and scouts in the woods o'er there, we should make sure they don't get a chance to spread word of our coming to their masters." Amos pulled his bow up, and checked the string to make sure it was still taut.

"I'd be quite surprised if the watchers in the wood haven't noticed our arrival already," Bella answers quietly. "They can see up the hill just as easily as we could see down it. Only the size of our force is likely to be unknown...for the moment."

At the gate the Ostlander looks at Tuli and Amos and then leans against the wall taking the weight off his injured leg. "Twas a norseman. A savage brute, but small and wiry on their accursed evil ponies. We were marching back from Zundap when our column was ovveran. It was a thing of Morr cursed nightmares. One moment there we was marching through the forest then dozens of 'em came racing down the road and more jumping out the woods mixed with beastmen." He shakes his head sadly, "We did well, but half the men fell and the rest of us barely made it back to the bridge tower." He looks at the columns of smoke on the horizon, "We heard the cannons at Wolfenburg two days past. Then slience - but at night, at night we can see the fires eh. Otland still stands."

"And Zundap? How does it fare?" Bella asks.

"Be wary Sers and m'Lady" the guard says to the two knights and Asyrha, not noticing the elven features. "It looks quiet aye, but we tried to send a pair of messegers to reach Lenkster. Norse bastards were on them bare 200 yards down the road. Took a while to do the dying." He nods to a pair of trees flanking the road and you can see through the leaves a bloody smear on the branches and a pair of flayed soldiers crumpled at the base of the tree. "Not too many we think but enough to keep us penned in."

"Do you think they were trying to draw you out?" Bella questions the soldier. "The enemy surely know that your garrison here isn't strong enough to threaten them by breaking out, so that leaves two motives for their actions so far - draw you out so they can take the Struhelspan by themselves, or keep you holed up so that they can bring a proper siege force to bear."

OOC: Could we get a rundown on the composition of the battalion? What forces does it include? And what about Bella's company - are they with the vanguard or the main body?

[Janwin]

As the Imperial Knight rides up to the fortress, he takes a brief moment to inspect for anything that seemed out of place, but for now it seemed exactly as it should with a beleaguered Imperial garrison outnumbered and low on hope. He hoped the arrival of the vanguard might restore some of that hope. Once satisfied that the keep is not a ruse by the enemy, he turns his horse around to face where the Captain lingers, and raises his lance high in the air to signal it safe for the remainder of the force to advance.

He then turns back to the soldier who greeted them.

"Soldier, who is this keep's ranking officer? I would like to have a word with them regarding troop positioning and available armament."

[Erulasto]

When Asyrha had made her way to the keep and heard that the Northmen were just a couple hundred yards out from the other side of the river, she furrowed her brow in consternation. They were closer than anticipated, so the arrival of the Drakwald second battalion was not as early as they had originally thought.

The Spellsinger would have little to say on the matter of troop disposition, or how to most effectively garrison the keeps on either end of the Struhelspan. Her mind was more pre-occupied with the notion of Sorcery in the days to come. While she had respect for the human Magister – Alena Martinov – whose grasp of Ghur was formidable, it was likely that countering any true practicioners of Dhar would fall to her.

The attack would come, sooner rather than later, Asyrha suspected. If Bella was correct and the enemy scouts had already noticed their arrival – which was likely given the cacophony of noise the battalion made as it approached with supply wagons and human-forged artillery – they would need to fortify swiftly.

Perhaps she could see more from a better vantage point. Turning her vivid gaze to the top of the tower, Asyrha slid from her horse and whispered soft words of comfort to the beast in Eltharin, before pulling her telescope from a saddlebag.

With it tucked under arm, Asyrha gracefully flowed past the soldiers and made her way into the keep proper. Her destination would be the uppermost tower, the highest point she could find. There, she set the telescope up and began to peer through it to the horizon where the enemy supposedly lay in wait.

[Lord Athos]

Sieur Armand nodded slightly. "<We have to put our trust in the Lady and Isha.> he stated. Eltharin was to Bretonnian what Bretonnian was to Reikspiel, so his usually pleasant voice sounded a bit too harsh, the words seeming a bit slurred.

________________________

Faced with the situation on the bridge, when the soldier left and hurried to get his commander (or not), Sieur Armand turned to Sir Gottfried.

"This is the unfortunate situation I expected. They will - how do you say- 'bottle the Grand Army up' here. A much smaller force will suffice to prevent us from reaching Wolfenburg."

[rax]

"Where's your sense of adventure, Sieur Armand?" Bella chuckles. "The battalion won't be sitting here for long. Securing the bridge and clearing the road is our job, and I've no doubt Captain Ludenhof will make sure we get it done. You'll find yourself in glorious hand-to-hand combat in no time!"

"Of course, marching into an ambush if we don't have to would be foolish. I wonder if we can draw them out, somehow..."

"Set a fire in the woods, maybe? But that would only work if we can identify enemy troop concentrations. The fire would need to be on them and behind them, or they'll just melt back into the woods," she says to herself, tapping her chin as she ruminates on their options. "A forlorn hope, maybe? Send a tough crew out to provoke an attack and hold them, then we charge out and slaughter the bastards once they've engaged our troops. A bit obvious though...we'd have to make it look like a legitimate reconnaissance in force to make the enemy commander take the bait."

"Do we have any explosive shot for the mortars? We could try sighting them along either side of the road and use the shot to blast away the trees nearest to it. Deny the enemy cover close to the road and make it difficult for them to charge any troops we send out. Of course, they'll be able to snipe at us, but from what I hear the Norsemen want to get to grips with their enemy, not sneak around the woods taking potshots. And beastmen are much the same..."

[Lord Athos]

"My sense of adventure is exactly where it needs to be." Sieur Armand replied calmly. "I already suggested advancing further than just to the bridge to His Highness., to secure the crossing for the army."

His gaze turned towards the Mercenary.

"We have to do more than what you suggest, though. We have to engage them quickly, and hard. Delay them forming into a force that could hold this side of the river sensibly until the Grand Army arrives. Keep the war parties divided, and destroy them. Run interference. That may mean striking deeper into territory held by the ruinous powers than is comfortable."

[rax]

"We won't be engaging anybody until we know where they are, Sieur, and none of our troops are trained to fight as skirmishers in the woods. Pushing into the forest with a large force would just be playing into the Beastmen's hands. That is why I believe we must make them want to come out and fight. It's only by having them form a cohesive force that we will be able to bring our own strengths to bear - combat in proper formation, supported by the firepower of our handguns and cannon."

[DrK]

Even as Sieur Armand and Bella trade conversation staring through the view slit on gate its as if the enemy has heard their discussion as you seen see shapes in the woods amidst the tree line some 50 yards distant. Even as you both peer through you can hear the shouts of alarm from the tower above you and a "Nock arrows!" from the man commanding the dozen or so archers on the tower roof. Asrhya inside the tower is hurried upstairs as the guards shout with alarm as she emerges onto the broad stone roof and advances to the the rampart she can see the same thing!

A rough line of savage looking men duck and pace beside the trees. For many of you its your first look at Norseman, they are muscled and bearded with bodies covered in intricate tatoos (though at this range you can't see what of). Leather jerkins and wooden shield provide some of them and heavy looking axes, some stained with blood are common. In the heart of the band lining the wood you can see one of them more muscular than the others and stripped to the waist covered in war paint bellowing and gesturing to the gate house you've just entered.

Interspersed amongst them are savage looking "things" - half beast, half man with cloven hooves and tall curling horns the beastman stand a head taller than the savage Kurgan, these are clearly beasts of chaos and you all know that the Drakwald throngs with beastmen. Here though there are not more than a few, though each looks big enough to crush more than all but the best trained imperial soldier!

The men by the gate look to the armoured knights and the scouts (and Bella), one man making the sign of the hammer, a muttered "Shallya keep me safe" the others breathing heavily as they peer through the viewing slit on the gate. "WHat do we do Ser Knight?" the youngest asks....

Gazing out you can see maybe 30 norse reavers and a half dozen beastmen (a small raiding or foraging band most likely) currently and you realise that they too have seen the troops flowing down the hill, on the far side and that an aggressive assault now maybe enough to seize the bridge and contest the crossing!

Moving into "partial" rounds. If you let me know what 2-3 rounds of actions you'd do then we can move towards more formal combat

[Lord Athos]

"If we are prepared and willing to leave Wolfenburg and Ostland to their fates, yours is the correct, and safe, course of action."
Sieur Armand simply replied, serenely.

____________________________________

Their conversation was cut short by the approaching war party, though.

"It seems they are doing us a favour." Sieur Armand, unsheathing his sword, replied with calm confidence, trying to instill the same in the soldiers around them. "Infantry, gather around! Prepare for battle!" he ordered with determination in his voice. This was true for both holding the gate or counterattacking, and he quickly surveyed the men gathered to ascertain which of the two would be the better option right now. It was probably too late for the second...

Spoiler: rolls

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Rolling for Command to gather the troops.

[Roll]1d100[/roll] vs 40 / 50 if they're all noblemen

[Erulasto]

Hurrying to the edge of the battlements, Asyrha looked out upon the growing throng of enemies. It was not simply the men of the North, but the foulness of the beast-kin as well. The Spellsinger felt the hot spark of ancestral anger flicker in her breast, feeling the clarion call of the Elven God of War – Kaela Mensha Khaine – stirring her blood in the songs of battle.



While they did not appear to be a significant force, it was very possible that there were more hidden within the trees. For the moment, however, it was a matter of little import. Setting aside the telescope, Asyrha slipped a small fragment of broken glass from the folds of her flowing white robes and moved to the crenelated ramparts directly atop the gate-house that the enemy would need to pass through to enter the bridge.



From this vantage point, the enemy would have to travel directly beneath her in order to access the bridge. And, from here, she would do her part.

"<Ellinill, Lord of Destruction, turn your baleful gaze upon my enemies.>" Asyrha said, the Eltharin rolling past her lips, though not soft and melodic as the norm. Now, it bore the weight of ages, and the might of the Elves within it.

"<Drakira, Queen of Vengeance, send your grief and rage to fuel the hearts of those who seek to stymie the Ruinous Powers. Khaine! Bloody-Handed, guide my hand and steel my heart!>"

The Spellsinger set her staff aside, raising her hands heavenward as she opened herself to the Winds of Magic. Grasping at Azyr, Asyrha began to gather the Blue Wind about her, ready to release when the marauders and their Beastmen allies grew close enough.

Spoiler: OOC

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Asyrha will hold until the enemy is within range, and cast Wind Blast centered on the bulk of the marauders.

Channelling for +2 Casting (1d100)[69] TN 83
Wind Blast (2d10)[3][5](8) +2 TN 14

EDIT: BOO!! DAMMIT!

Wind Blast calls down a raging tempest of battering winds from the heavens to knock all enemies within the large blast template prone. They need to make a Toughness test or be stunned for one round. A successful Strength test is required to move. They also take a -20 to WS tests inside it and cannot make Ranged attacks. Lasts for a number of rounds equal to magic rating. In Asyrha's case, 2 rounds.

[rax]

Bella turns to the archers that had accompanied them to the bridge. "You lot! Anyone not already up on the battlements, get up there now and start turning those savages into pincushions!"

"Amos! Ride back to the Captain and tell him the enemy have shown themselves. Tell him we need the pike down here at the double, with an equal number of spearmen in support."

"The rest of you form ranks like the knight says!" she chivvies the Ostlanders. "If the enemy show signs of battering through the gate, you hold it at all costs, you hear? Help is on the way and then we'll cut them down like the dogs they are!"

OOC: That should do for a first round. Off to do some shopping, so I'll edit in further actions when I get back.

Round 2: If no one seems to be following orders, assist Armand or anyone else with Command skill in getting the defence set up. If everyone seems panicky, try a Charm roll to calm them down.

If everything is humming along nicely, keep a weather eye on the raiders outside and try to get reports from up the tower to find out what they can see. React as appropriate.

Round 3: If the Ostlanders are formed up in the tunnel under the tower, join them in the front rank and wait for reinforcements. Otherwise as in round 2.

If the enemy has somehow managed to bash through the door and attack the defenders - fight! If not, wait for reinforcements and let the archers do their work.

Bella's ideal plan is to use the pikemen, supported by spear and/or halberds, to cut a path through the raiding party. This will require careful coordination to set up, but she thinks it will preserve our forces better than by charging out willy-nilly to engage the enemy one on one.

[dojango]

"Morr's balls!" Amos swore. He watched the eaves of forest. When the enemy tide poured out of the forest, his bow was close at hand. Fast as his hands could move, he sped two arrows towards the enemy champion.

Hearing Bella's shouts, he grabbed the reins of his horse and was galloping across the bridge to the rest of the battalion. He gave Ludenhof a salute and said, "Enemy raiders coming out of the forest. Men and beasts. Two score. The knights want the pikes by their side." He waits for a moment for the Captain's response.

Spoiler

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(1d100)[43], (1d100)[95], v. 38. (Long range), (1d10+3)[5], (1d10+3)[10]